Red Laser Rainbow (Melanotaenia rubravittata)

A "Holy Grail" Fish collected by Gary Lange, Johannes Graf and Dan Dority. The Red Laser Rainbow from the Wapoga River in Seiwa was a coveted species that first appeared on the Aqualog Rainbowfish book in 2002. Formerly referred to as the "Striped Praecox" before scientific scrutiny, the collectors immediately noticed behavioral differences and decided to rename them "Red Laser" Rainbows to prevent people from crossing them with Melanotaenia praecox.

Melanotaenia rubravittata is a medium sized rainbow that maxes out around 3.5" in captivity with proper husbandry. It's iridescent blue scales and red Laser stripes make it a captivating fish to stock in a planted tank, even something as small as 20 gallons! Just like any other rainbowfish, it is quite undemanding and will readily accept a wide range of foods and water parameters. Just like with other rainbows, having conspecific females present will provide the males a reason to bring out their best displays as they pursue their mates to spawn.